JP2002300348A - Imaging device, its assembling method and imaging system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging system for realizing accurate alignment between a photosensor array and other optical components in an imaging device. SOLUTION: This invention provides an improved lens focusing and referencing arrangement for the imaging system 60 of the type which may include the photosensor array 152. The imaging system housing 100 may include reference surfaces 324, 326, 354, 356 configured such that they come in contact with the lens 210 only near the ends thereof in order to minimize the effect of any irregularities in the reference surfaces 324, 326, 354, 356.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to imaging systems, and more particularly to an imaging system of the type that includes an optical sensor and at least one lens.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An imaging device is used to generate machine-readable data representing an image of an object, such as a page of printed text. One type of imaging device is a photoelectric imaging device. As used herein, the term "photoelectric imager" refers to any device that generates data representing an imaged object by using an array of light sensors, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD). . Examples of photoelectric imaging devices include devices such as video devices with cameras and digital cameras that instantly focus the entire image captured on a two-dimensional photosensor array. Another example of a photoelectric imaging device is a line-focus system.
s system).

Some linear focusing systems focus an object by sweeping a scan head over the object to sequentially focus a narrow "scan line" portion of the object on a linear photosensor array. Take an image. Examples of such devices, commonly referred to as optical scanners, usually include simply a "scanner"
Computer input devices as well as facsimile machines and digital copiers.

[0004] Linear focus systems have also been used in some bar code readers. Generally, in a linear focus barcode reader, a narrow portion of the barcode is imaged on a linear photosensor array. The imaging barcode can then be read by analyzing the electrical output from the photosensor array. An example of an imaging device that can be used in combination with a barcode reader is “Method and Apparatus for Setting Focus on Imaging Device (METHOD AND A
PPARATUS FOR SETTINGFOCUS
U.S. Patent No. 6,11 to Gardner, Jr for "IN AN IMAGING DEVICE".
No. 8,598, and "Alignment apparatus and method for imaging system (ALIGNMENT APPARATUS)
ANDMETHOD FOR AN IMAGING
US Patent Application No. 0, Gardner, Jr, filed April 13, 1999,
No. 9 / 290,216, both of which are incorporated herein by reference for all disclosed matters.

In a linear focusing system, a light beam from an illuminated line object is imaged by a lens onto a linear light sensor array located far from the line object. A linear light sensor array is a one-dimensional array of optical elements corresponding to small area locations on a line object. Such a small area on a line object is commonly referred to as a "pixel" or "pixel." In response to light from its corresponding pixel location on the line object, each photosensor pixel element in the linear photosensor array (sometimes simply referred to as a "pixel") takes the time immediately preceding it, known as the sampling interval. A data signal is generated that represents the light intensity received during the interval. All optical device data signals are received and processed by a suitable data processing system.

In a color optical scanner, a plurality of spectrally separated imaging beams (typically red, green and blue beams) must be projected onto a photosensor array. The structure and operation of the color optical scanner are described in "Color Combiner and Color Separator and Its Realization (COLOR C
OMBINER AND SEPARATOR AND
IMPLEMENTATIONS) "
U.S. Patent No. 4,870,268 to Cent et al.
"Optical Scanner"
United States Patent No. 4,926,041 to Boyd
No. (and the corresponding EPO Patent No. 041057)
No. 8), "Optical Scanner with Mirror Mounted Closing Aperture or Filter (OPTICAL SCANNER)
WITHMIRROR MOUNTED OCCLUD
US Patent No. 5,019,703 to Boyd et al. (And corresponding EPO Patent No. 0438868) for "ING APERTURE ORFILTER";
"Beam SPLITTER APPARATUS with adjustable beam focus and positioning
WITH ADJUSTABLE IMAGE FOC
U.S. Patent No. 5,032,004 to Boyd et al. (And corresponding EPO Patent No. 0458492) for "US AND REGISTRATION", "BEAM SPLITT".
ER / COMBINER APPARATUS), US Patent No. 5,044,72 by Steinle.
No. 7 (and corresponding EPO Patent No. 0455450)
No.), “Beam splitter with path length compensator /
Combiner (BEAM SPLITTER / COMBINE)
R WITH PATH LENGTH COMPEN
US Pat. No. 5,040,872 to Steinle, SATOR, for an apparatus for assembling components of a color optical scanner (APPARATUS FOR A).
SSEMBLING COMPONENTS OF C
OLOR OPTICAL SCANNERS), US Pat. No. 5,227, to Elder, Jr et al.
No. 620 (and corresponding EPO Patent No. 057678).
8), "COLOR OPTICAL SCANN with image positioning and holding assembly"
ERWITH IMAGE REGISTRATION
HOLDING ASSEMBLY)
No. 5,410,347 to Einle et al., all of which are specifically incorporated herein by reference for all matters disclosed.

[0007] In an image pickup apparatus, particularly a linear focus type image pickup apparatus as described above, it is preferable to accurately align a light beam from an object with an optical sensor array in order to obtain an accurate image. In a typical linear focus scanning device, the imaging light beam is sent by one or more optics (eg, a lens) before reaching the light sensor array. Even small deviations between such optics and the photosensor array can cause significant misalignment between the light beam and the photosensor array, resulting in a corresponding decrease in image quality. May be.

[0008] A scanning device including a light beam alignment function is called an image pickup device (IMA) having a beam direction steering function.
GING DEVICE WITH BEAM STE
ERING CAPABILITY) "
US Patent No. 5,646,394 to Inle et al.
"Photoelectric imaging method and apparatus (PHOTOELECTRI
C IMAGING METHOD AND APPA
No. 6,147,343 to Christensen, both of which are specifically incorporated herein by reference for all disclosed matters.

Generally, the optical components of an imaging device are mounted within an imaging device housing. The optical sensor array is
Generally, it is mounted on a circuit board mounted on the imaging device housing. Also, generally, a lens is mounted within the imaging device housing. This lens serves to focus the image of the object on the photosensor array. For the imaging device to function properly, the focus of the lens must be set accurately.

After the imaging device is assembled, generally,
The focus of the lens is adjusted. Typically, this is done by adjusting the distance between the lens and the photosensor array, the image distance of the optics, until the focus is appropriate. To achieve this, it is customary to provide an imaging device having one or more reference planes for positioning the lens. Such a reference plane is generally
It allows the lens to translate only in one direction of movement, i.e. in a direction approaching or away from the optical sensor, preventing the lens from shifting in the other direction. If such a shift is allowed, the shift will cause the lens position to shift with respect to the photosensor array. Thus, the reference plane allows the focus of the lens to be adjusted while maintaining alignment between the lens and the photosensor array. The reference surface of the lens described schematically is, for example, in the form of a cylindrical surface or a V-shaped groove.

[0011] Also, the imaging device typically includes a bracket or other holding mechanism that locks the lens in place with respect to a reference plane after setting the focus of the imaging system. The bracket is fixed by, for example, screws. Thus, the screws are loosened when it is desired to move the lens to focus the system, and tightened to lock the lens in place when the proper focus is achieved.

[0012]

It has been found that conventional holding mechanisms are problematic in that they often cause lens misalignment during the focusing operation. For example, in the case of the above-mentioned screw holding bracket, if the screw is loosened too much before the focusing operation, the lens can be rotated away from the reference plane, which may cause a shift. Further, the screw may not be sufficiently tightened to lock the lens after the focusing operation is completed. As a result, the lens may deviate from its in-focus position even after locking the lens. Furthermore, it has been found that the torque applied to tighten the retaining screw is transmitted to the lens, which can cause the lens to rotate and become misaligned.

[0013] It has also been found that conventional holding mechanisms are not suitable for adjustment by an automatic focus adjustment device, such as is generally used to set the focus in an imaging device.

[0014] It is therefore desirable to provide an optical imaging device that provides accurate alignment between the optical sensor array and other optical components in the device.

[0015]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An imaging device for generating machine readable data representing an imaged object is disclosed. The imaging device may include an imaging device housing, the imaging device housing including at least one first reference plane and at least one second reference plane.
The at least one first reference plane is coplanar with the at least one second reference plane. At least one first
Is discontinuous with at least one second reference plane. The at least one lens assembly may contact both at least one first reference plane and at least one second reference plane.

Also disclosed is a method of assembling an imaging device that generates machine-readable data representing an object to be imaged. The method may include providing an imager housing having at least one first reference plane and at least one second reference plane, and providing at least one lens. The at least one first reference plane is coplanar with the at least one second reference plane. The at least one first reference plane is discontinuous with the at least one second reference plane. The method further includes using the at least one first reference plane and the at least one second reference plane to align the lens with the imager housing.

[0017]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In this specification, for example, an optical sensor
An improved lens focusing and holding mechanism for an imaging system of the type including an array is disclosed. The lens can be translated along the reference plane in contact with and away from the optical sensor array to adjust the focus of the imaging system while in contact with a reference plane formed in the housing of the imaging system. It is.

The reference surface can be configured to contact the lens only near its end. To achieve this, a concave area can be provided near the center of the lens. By limiting the contact to the outer portions of the lens, the effects that otherwise could be caused by irregularities in the reference plane on the alignment are minimized.

A lens retaining clip can be provided to secure the lens in the imaging system housing. The lens holding clip can remain stationary while translating the lens during the focusing operation. After achieving the desired focus, the lens holding clip can be locked in place, for example, with a holding screw to ensure that the lens holding clip plastically deforms to hold the lens in the desired position. The lens retaining clip can include a detent tab that cooperates with a detent rib on the housing to prevent torque applied to the retaining screw from rotating the lens retaining clip.

[0020] The imaging system housing can include spaced support members that support the lens retaining clip when first installed. A first torque may be applied to the retaining screw of the lens retaining clip to cause a portion of the lens retaining clip to flex downward between the support members. This deflection allows the lens holding clip to be fixed during the focus adjustment operation. After the focus is set, a higher level of torque can be applied to the retaining screw to lock the lens in place.

The lens reference plane and the optical sensor reference plane are integrally formed in the structure, so that the alignment between the lens reference plane and the optical sensor reference plane and the alignment between the reference plane and the structure itself are controlled. Can be easily achieved and maintained.

FIGS. 1 to 13 schematically show an object 3 to be imaged.
2 illustrates an imaging device 60 that generates machine-readable data, which represents No. 2. The imaging device 60 includes the imaging device housing 10.
0 (FIG. 2), wherein the imaging device housing comprises:
At least one first reference plane 324, 354 (FIG. 4)
And at least one second reference plane 326, 356. The at least one first reference plane 324, 354 is
Coplanar with at least one second reference plane 326, 356. At least one first reference plane 324, 3
54 includes at least one second reference plane 326, 356
Is discontinuous. At least one lens assembly 210 (FIG. 2) has at least one first reference plane 3
24, 354 and at least one second reference plane 326;
356 can be in contact with both.

FIGS. 1-13 also generally illustrate a method of assembling an imaging device 60 for generating machine-readable data representing an imaged object 32. The method includes providing an imager housing 100 having at least one first reference surface 324, 354 and at least one second reference surface 326, 356, and providing at least one lens 210. Can be included. The at least one first reference plane 324, 354 is coplanar with the at least one second reference plane 326, 356, and the at least one first reference plane 324, 354 is
It is discontinuous with at least one second reference plane 326,356. The method further includes aligning the lens 210 with respect to the imager housing 100 using the at least one first reference plane 324, 354 and the at least one second reference plane 326, 356. Can be included.

While the apparatus and method have been described above generally, they will now be described in further detail.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a media library device 10. The media (media) library device 10 can include at least one media magazine 20 and at least one media processing device 40. Magazine 20
A plurality of slots 22, such as individual slots 24, 26, 28, may be included. Slot 22 may be adapted to receive a media storage device, such as media storage device 30 shown as housed in slot 28 in FIG. The media storage device 30 may be any type of media storage device. Media storage device 30 is, for example, a conventional digital linear tape cartridge. A bar code label 32 may be affixed to the media storage device 30 to uniquely identify the media storage device 30.

The media processing device 40 generally has an upper wall 4
2. It may be in the form of a parallelepiped having a lower wall 44, a left side wall 46 and a right side wall 48 on the opposite side, and a rear side wall 50 and a front side wall 52 on the opposite side. The front side wall 52 may include a substantially rectangular opening 54. For example, a bar code reader imaging device 60 may be mounted on the inner surface 80 (eg, FIG. 2) of the media handler sidewall 46 as shown. The imaging device 60
Computer processor 66 via data connection 68
May be attached to.

In operation, the media processing device 40 is movable in a lateral direction 62 relative to the media magazine 20. In this manner, the media processing device 40 can be selectively positioned adjacent to any of the slots 22 of the media magazine 20. A plunger mechanism (not shown) within the media handling device 40 is movable in the entry direction 64 and is adapted to selectively engage a media storage device, such as the media storage device 30. In this manner, the media processing device 40 stores the media storage device in the media library device 1
It can be moved between a media magazine 20 located in the center 0 and one or more media playback / recording devices (not shown). Imaging device 60 may serve to read a barcode label on a media storage device, such as barcode label 32 on media storage device 30, to determine and identify a particular media storage device. .

[0028] The media library device 10 may be a conventional media library device, for example, "Calibration System for Imaging Devices and Methods (CALIBRATION SYSTEM).
FOR AN IMAGING APPARATUS
No. 6,194,697 by Gardner on "METHOD AND METHOD" and "METHOD OF DECIPHERING B".
AR CODES), No. 6, by Kato et al.
U.S. Pat. No. 164,543 and "Optical Assembly H Offset with Lenses Offset from the Optical Axis" filed on Apr. 13, 1999.
AVING LENS OFFSETFROM OPT
No. 09 / 290,842 to Gardner et al., And "Guidance System A for Automatic Media Exchanger" filed Apr. 13, 1999.
ND METHOD FOR AN AUTOMATE
D MEDIA EXCHANGER)
No. 09 / 291,242 by rdner et al. and “Imaging AP Alignment System and Method,” filed Apr. 13, 1999.
PARATUS ALIGNMENT SYSTEM
No. 09 / 290,429 to Gardner et al.
Automated Optical Detection System and Method, filed on March 13
Application No. 09/290, by Gardner et al., For "TION SYSTEM AND METHOD").
No. 926 and “Alignment Apparatus and Method for Imaging System (ALI) filed on Apr. 13, 1999.
GNMENT APPARATUS AND METH
OD FOR AN IMAGING SYSTE
Application No. 09/2 by Gardner on "M)"
90,216 US patent applications.

FIG. 2 shows the details of the imaging device 60 by showing the inner surface 80 of the side wall 46 of the media processing device. Referring to FIG. 2, as shown, the sidewall 46 may include a light source mounting area 56. The light source mounting area 56 has a role of mounting a conventional light source such as an LED light source used for illuminating the image pickup device 60 so that the bar code can be easily read.

Still referring to FIG.
Can also include a housing 100. The housing 100 generally includes a light sensor mounting area 150.
The figure can include a lens mounting area 200 with the lens assembly 210 mounted. As can be seen from FIG.
0 can be fixed by a lens clip 240.

The optical sensor mounting area 150 includes an optical sensor
A package 152 (FIG. 12) may be provided for holding and aligning the package against the sidewall. In this manner, light sensor mounting area 150 serves to align light sensor package 152 with lens assembly 210. The optical sensor package 152
For example, model number uPD373 from NEC Corporation of Japan
It may be of the type sold as 4A. The light sensor mounting area 150 aligns the light sensor package with the light sensor mounting area 150 so that the side wall 4
6. Light source mounting area 56 and lens mounting area 20
The reference planes 156, 158,
It may have various reference planes, such as 160, 162. The light sensor mounting area 150 may be substantially identical to, for example, the light sensor mounting area described in the previously referenced US Pat. No. 6,118,598, except for the following. The optical sensor mounting area 150 of the present embodiment is formed integrally in the side wall 46 of the medium processing apparatus.
The light sensor mounting area described in No. 8,598 is different from the present embodiment in that it is formed in another housing.

FIG. 3 shows a lens for clarity.
3 shows a detailed cutaway perspective view of the lens mounting area 200 of FIG. 2 with the assembly 210 and the lens retaining clip member 240 removed. FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3, but the lens mounting area is shown in plan view. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the lens mounting area 200 includes the media processing device 40.
May be a generally parallelepiped-shaped recess integrally formed in the side wall 46. The lens mounting area 200 is
A first lower surface 300 and a second lower surface 330 may be included.

The first lower surface 300 may be substantially parallel to the inner surface 80 of the side wall 46. As shown, between the first lower surface 300 and the inner surface 80 of the sidewall 46, generally
A first front side wall 302, a first side wall 304, and a first rear side wall 306 (FIG. 4) can extend. For example, the rounded portion 3 extending between the inner side surface 80 and the first side wall 304
As shown at 08, the inner side surface 80 as shown, the first front side wall 302, the first side wall 304 and the first rear wall 306
May be connected by a rounded portion. Such a rounded portion may be provided to provide a margin for moving components in the medium processing device 40. As shown, a pair of support members 310, 3
12 can extend. Support members 310, 312
Extend, for example, over the first lower surface 300 by a distance of about 1 mm and are separated by a distance “f” (FIG. 4). The distance “f” is, for example, about 14.5 mm. As shown, the first lower surface 300 is provided with a hole 314. The anti-rotation rib 316 extends laterally from the first side wall 304.
Should be extended. To provide clearance for the lens assembly 210, an arcuate channel 230 can be provided in the lens mounting area 200, for example, as shown in FIGS.

The second lower surface 330 can be formed in a manner similar to the first lower surface 300 described above. Specifically, second lower surface 330 may be substantially parallel to inner surface 80 of sidewall 46. As shown, the second front side wall 3
32, second side wall 334 (FIG. 4) and second rear wall 33
6 can extend entirely between the second lower surface 330 and the inner surface 80 of the side wall 46. As shown, 1
A pair of support members 340, 342 may extend upward from the second lower surface 330. Support members 340, 34
2 is, for example, about 1 mm above the second lower surface 330
And separated by the aforementioned distance “f” (FIG. 4). A hole 334 may be provided in the second lower surface 300 as shown. An anti-rotation rib 346 may extend laterally from the second front wall 332.

Referring again to FIG. 3, the first shelf 3
20 may be substantially parallel to the first lower surface 300. As shown, the side wall portion 322 includes the first lower surface 300.
And between the shelf 320. The shelf portion 320 may be, for example, about 2.
It is located at a distance of 1 mm below. As shown, the first lens reference plane 324 and the second lens reference plane 326
It can extend downward from the shelf 320 at an acute angle. The first lens reference plane 324 may be substantially coplanar with the second lens reference plane 326. The first concave surface 328 can be disposed between the first lens reference surface 324 and the second lens reference surface 326 in a state of being recessed from them. First concave surface 328 includes first and second concave surfaces.
May be substantially parallel to the lens reference surfaces 324, 326, but may be separated therefrom, for example, by a distance of about 0.51 mm.

The second shelf 350 (FIG. 4) can be formed in substantially the same manner as the first shelf 320 described above. Specifically, the second shelf portion 350 is
It may be substantially parallel to the second lower surface 330. As shown, a sidewall portion 352 may extend between the second lower surface 330 and the second ledge 350. The second ledge 350 may be located, for example, at a distance of about 2.1 mm below the second lower surface 330. The third and fourth lens reference surfaces 354 and 356 respectively
For example, the first and second reference surfaces 324 and 326 can be formed in substantially the same manner. Specifically, the third lens reference plane 354 and the fourth lens reference plane 3
56 may extend from the ledge 350 at an acute angle downward. The third lens reference plane 354 may be substantially coplanar with the fourth lens reference plane 356. A second concave surface 358 may be disposed between the third lens reference surface 354 and the fourth lens reference surface 356 in a more concave state. The second concave surface 358 may be substantially parallel to the third lens reference surface 354 and the fourth lens reference surface 356 and may be separated therefrom, for example, by a distance of about 0.51 mm.

Referring to FIG. 4, the first lens reference surface 3
The 24 and third lens reference surfaces 354 each have a length "a" of, for example, about 7 mm. The second lens reference plane 326 and the fourth lens reference plane 356 each have a length "b" of, for example, about 6.8 mm. First concave surface 328 and second concave surface 358 each have a length "c", for example, of about 10 mm.

With further reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, as shown, the lens mounting area 200 can further include a tapered wall portion 202. Tapered wall portion 202
Facilitates the propagation of the imaging light beam from a target (eg, a barcode label) to the lens assembly 210 when the lens assembly is mounted within the lens mounting area 200, for example, as shown in FIG. May be provided for the purpose. The lens mounting area 200 may include a channel (groove) 204. As can be seen from FIG. 2, in order to provide an unobstructed light path between the lens assembly 210 and the light sensor package 152 (FIG. 12) mounted on the light sensor mounting area 150, the lens mounting area 200 is provided. The channel 204 may extend between the light sensor mounting area 150 and the light sensor mounting area 150.

FIG. 5 is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the lens mounting area 200 of FIG. Referring to FIG.
The assembly 210 may generally include a housing 212 having an outer surface 216. One or more optical components, such as, for example, a lens member (not shown), can be disposed within housing 212 in a conventional manner. As shown, the outer surface 216 of the housing 212
The recess 214 is preferably formed in the recess. Lens assembly 210 may have optical axis 218 as shown. The lens assembly housing 212 has a length "d" of, for example, about 18 mm. The recess 214
For example, it has a length "e" of about 7 mm. The lens assembly 210 is, for example, Pentax Technology
This is a type of product sold as a part number 81312 by Ogis.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the lens assembly 210 taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4 and supported in the lens mounting area 200. As can be seen from FIG. 6, the outer surface 216 of the lens assembly housing 212 has a lens reference surface 324, 326, 354, 35
6 (only surfaces 324, 354 are shown in FIG. 4). The outer surface 216 of the lens assembly
Not in contact with concave surfaces 328, 358. Still referring to FIG. 6, surfaces 324, 354 (similar to surfaces 326, 356) make an angle "g" of approximately 90 degrees.

Referring again to FIG. 5, as shown,
A lens holding clip member 240 can be provided.
As described in more detail herein, the lens retaining clip member 240 serves to retain the lens assembly 210 within the lens mounting area 200 of the housing 100. Further, the lens holding clip member 240
Allows the focus of the imager 60 to be adjusted by translating the lens assembly 210 in the directions 220, 222. After adjusting the focus,
The lens holding clip member 240 is locked in place so that the lens assembly 210 cannot be further translated, and the focus of the imaging device 60 is set.

Referring to FIG. 5, the lens retaining clip member 240 includes, as shown, the arched portions 242 and 1.
A pair of wing portions 250, 270 may be included. The arched portion 242 and the wing portions 250 and 270 are all
For example, it is integrally formed from stainless steel having a thickness of about 0.015 inches (0.38 mm).

Referring to FIG. 7 and FIG.
0 may have an upper surface 252 and an opposite lower surface 254. An anti-rotation tab 256 extends from the forward edge of wing portion 250. As best seen in FIG. 7, the anti-rotation tab 256 may bend downward relative to other portions of the wing portion 250. A hole 258 extends completely through wing portion 250. As can best be seen in FIG. 8, wing portion 250 may have an enlarged portion 264 next to arched portion 242.

The wing portion 270 is similar to the wing portion 25 described above, except that the wing portion 270 can omit the expanded portion.
0 can be formed in substantially the same manner. Specifically, wing portion 270 may have an upper surface 272 (FIG. 5) and an opposite lower surface 274 (FIG. 8). An anti-rotation tab 276 may extend from a forward edge of wing portion 270. As with the anti-rotation tab 256 described above, the anti-rotation tab 276 may be bent downward relative to the rest of the wing portion 270. Hole 278
It penetrates completely through wing portion 270 in the same manner as hole 258 in wing portion 250.

Referring to FIG. 4, as described above, the wing portion 2
To accommodate a wing portion 250 (FIG. 8) that is longer than wing portion 270 to include 50 extensions 264, width “h” of second lower surface 330 of the lens mounting area is reduced to first lower surface 300. May be longer than the width “i” of the

The lens holding clip member 240 serves to fix the lens assembly 210 within the lens mounting area 210 of the housing 200 after adjusting the focus of the imaging device by translating the lens assembly. This focusing operation will be described in detail below.

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a focus setting device 400 that can be used to set the focus of the imaging device 60. The focus setting device 400 generally includes the fixture 4
10 and a movable arm 420. As shown, the fixture 410 is configured to securely hold the sidewall 46 of the media handling device 40 (FIG. 1). The movable arm 420 is adapted to move in the direction indicated by arrows 220, 222, and the lens
An intersection 422 adapted to engage the assembly 210 may be included.

To set the focus of the imaging device 60, the side wall 46 can be fitted into a fixture 410 of the focus setting device 400, as shown in FIG. The lens assembly 210 is mounted on the lens reference surface 32
4, 326, 354, 356 (FIGS. 3 and 4), the lens assembly 210 can be inserted into the lens mounting area 200. Next, the lens holding clip member 240 is attached to the lens assembly 210.
It can be arranged to cover the top. FIG. 9 shows this state. As can be seen in FIG. 9, the lower surface 254 of the wing portion 250 of the lens retaining clip member
0, 342. Although not shown in FIG. 9, similarly, the lower surface of the wing portion 270 of the lens holding clip member rests on the support members 310, 312 (FIG. 3) and the wing portions 250, 270 of the lens holding clip member. A hole (e.g., hole 256 (FIG. 7))
It is aligned with holes 334, 300 in FIG.

Next, a pair of screws 260 and 280 (FIG. 5)
The wing portions 250 of the lens retaining clip members, respectively.
270 can be threaded into holes 334, 304, respectively, in housing 200 (FIG. 3). FIG. 10 illustrates a situation where a first predetermined level of torque is being applied to screws 260, 280. This first level of torque is, for example, about one inch-pound.
The torque applied to the screw 260 causes the wing portion 250
It can be seen that there is a downward deflection between the support members 340 and 342 such that the outer portion of the wing portion 250 (including the anti-rotation tab 256) is upwardly bent. Although not shown in FIG. 10, the torque applied to the screw 280 also causes the wing portion 270 to flex downward between the support members 310 and 312 so that the outer portion of the wing portion 270 (the anti-rotation tab 276 ) Flex upwards.

The lens holding clip member 240 is shown in FIG.
, The arched portion 242 of the lens retaining clip member is sized such that it does not contact the lens assembly 210. Thus, the lens assembly 210 can be translated in directions 220, 222 to focus the lens assembly. The flexing of the wing portions 250, 270 of the lens retaining clip member downwardly between the support members 340, 342 and 310, 312, respectively, ensures that the lens retaining clip member 240 is securely in place during the focusing operation. This is advantageous. This is because, for example, when the lens assembly 210 is being translated during the focusing operation, it is necessary to prevent the lens holding clip member 240 from swinging and possibly cutting into the lens assembly 210. Because it can be. Support members 310, 312, 34
0, 342 (for example, FIG. 3)
It can be seen that the wing portions 250, 270 of the clip members are slightly more flexible.

Thereafter, the intersection 4 of the movable arm 420
22 (FIG. 13) to move the lens assembly 21
0 can be contacted. After such contact, the movable arm 42 relative to the lens assembly 210
It can be seen that 0 can be used in directions 220, 222 to adjust the focus of imager 60. During this translation, movable arm 420 can apply a slight downward force to lens assembly 210 along direction 224. This downward force causes the lens assembly housing 21
2 (FIG. 5) and lens reference surfaces 324, 326, 354, 3
56, (FIGS. 3 and 4) are securely contacted. as a result,
This contact causes the optical sensor package 152 (FIG. 1)
The alignment of the optical axis 218 (FIG. 5) of the lens assembly with respect to 2) is maintained.

FIG. 11 shows a state in which the lens assembly 210 can be locked in place using the lens retaining clip member after the lens assembly 210 is in focus. To accomplish this, a second predetermined level of torque is applied to the screws 260, 280, thereby causing the lens retaining clip member (and, in particular, the wing portion 250 of the lens retaining clip member (FIG. 8)). Extension 2
64) is plastically deformed so that the arched portion 242 of the lens retaining clip member is
0 and forcing a downward force there to lock the lens assembly in place. This second level of torque is, for example, about 5 inch-pounds. FIG.
As can be seen from FIG. 1, in this state, it is assumed that the lower surface 254 of the wing portion 250 of the lens holding clip member is actually in contact with the second lower surface 330 of the lens mounting area 200. Similarly, although not shown in FIG. 11, the lower surface 2 of the wing portion 270 of the lens retaining clip member
74 may actually contact the first lower surface 300 of the lens mounting area 200.

It should be noted that the focusing operation has been described using the automatic focus setting device 400 for illustrative purposes only. Alternatively, in practice, translation of the lens assembly 210 can be achieved using other types of auto-focusing devices or manual processes.

As previously described, it is preferred that the optical axis of the lens be accurately aligned with the photosensor package in the imaging device. Even if there is a slight misalignment between the lens and the optical sensor package, a large misalignment occurs between the light beam and the optical sensor package,
In response, the imaging quality may be reduced. For example, in the case of the aforementioned lens assembly 210, the optical axis 2
Preferably, 18 (FIG. 5) remains perpendicular to the optical sensor package 152 (FIG. 12) of the imaging device 60.
The aforementioned lens mounting area 200 enhances the ability to maintain a desired alignment between the lens assembly 210 and the photosensor array of the imager, as will be described in greater detail below.

Lens assembly reference surfaces 324, 32
The purpose of 6, 354, 356 is the optical sensor package 1.
The position and orientation of the lens assembly 210 with respect to FIG. 52 (FIG. 12), thereby achieving accurate alignment between the lens assembly 210 and the light sensor package 152,
In directions 220 and 222 (FIG. 5) to focus the lens.

Ideally, the lens reference plane should be in line contact with the cylindrical lens housing. However, in practice, it is extremely difficult to produce a perfectly flat reference plane, and there is almost always a slight deviation. Such deviations have been found to adversely affect the alignment of the lens assembly. In particular, such perturbations may cause the optic axis of the lens assembly to tilt from a desired orientation and thus become non-perpendicular to the photosensor array.

However, it has been found that such deviations have less effect on lens assembly alignment when near the ends of the lens assembly (compared to near the center of the lens assembly). ing. The aforementioned lens mounting area 200 ensures that there is no distortion near the center of the lens assembly by providing concave surfaces 328, 358 near the center of the lens. As described above, such concave surface 32
8, 358 do not contact the lens assembly 210, and the lens reference surfaces 324, 326, 354, 356 (lens
Only near the end of the assembly 210) is in contact with the lens assembly. Accordingly, the lens mounting area 200 described herein reduces the effect of misalignment of the reference plane on alignment of the lens assembly.

As described above, the lens assembly 210
It is preferable to maintain accurate alignment and positioning between the optical sensor package 152 and the optical sensor package 152. However, it has been found that applying a torque to the set screw of the clip member when attaching the lens holding clip member (as described above) may apply a torque or moment to the lens holding clip member.
This torque or moment may cause the lens holding clip member to rotate slightly. This may cause the lens assembly 210 to rotate slightly (so that the optic axis of the lens assembly is no longer perpendicular to the light sensor), or the lens assembly may be linear in the direction of or away from the light sensor. Or move to a different location (thus adversely affecting the focus of the system).

As will be described in greater detail below, the imaging device 60 described herein prevents such rotational or linear movement of the lens assembly, thereby providing the imaging device 60
Equipment to increase the image quality that can be generated by the For example, with reference to FIG. 5, when a clockwise tightening torque 226 is applied to the screws 260, 280, a component of this torque will
It can be seen that it is more likely to be transmitted to the lens retaining clip member 240 (due to the frictional contact between the head of 80 and the upper surfaces 252, 272). The transmitted torque causes the lens holding clip member 240 to rotate in the clockwise direction 226. However, the rotation preventing tab 2 of the lens holding clip member
56, 276 are housing rotation preventing ribs 346, 31
6, respectively, to resist the transmission torque and prevent the lens holding clip member 240 from rotating. In particular,
As can be seen in FIG. 5, the anti-rotation tab 256 of the lens retaining clip member contacts the anti-rotation rib 346 of the housing to resist clockwise rotation of the lens retaining clip member 240 with respect to the housing 200. In a similar manner, the anti-rotation tab 276 of the lens retaining clip member
Contacts the housing anti-rotation rib 316 to also resist clockwise rotation of the lens retaining clip member 240 with respect to the housing 200.

As can be seen from the above description, the rotation preventing tabs 256 and 276 of the lens holding clip member cooperate with the housing rotation preventing ribs 316 and 346 and
0, 280 prevents rotation of the lens holding clip member 240 while being tightened. Thereby, the accuracy of the final alignment of the lens assembly 210 with respect to the optical sensor package 152 is improved.

For example, referring to FIG. 7, the rotation preventing tabs 256 and 276 of the lens holding clip member (2 in FIG. 7).
It can be seen that only 56 is shown) (as shown in FIG. 7), but is inclined downward relative to the other portions of the wing portions (250, 270) of the lens retaining clip member. This downward slope allows the screws 260, 280 (eg, FIG. 5)
Are tightened, the wings 250 of the lens retaining clip member,
When the 270 is distorted, the anti-rotation tab 256,
It is assured that the 276 remains in contact with the housing anti-rotation ribs 316, 346 (in a manner similar to that described above).

For example, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the downward deflection of the wing portion 250 between the support members 340, 342 causes the front and rear portions of the wing portion 250 (shown in FIGS. 10 and 11). ) Bend upward. However, because the anti-rotation tab 256 is sloped downward relative to the other portions of the wing portion 250, the anti-rotation tab remains in place even when the wing portion 250 flexes as shown in FIGS. It is ensured that the anti-rotation ribs 346 (eg, FIG. 5) remain in contact. Thus, the downward slope of the anti-rotation tabs 256, 276 ensures that the anti-rotation function described above works in all conditions.

As an alternative to the mounting procedure described above, an intermediate tightening step (as shown in FIG. 10) can be omitted. In this case, the focus of the lens assembly 210 will be set before the screws 260 and 280 are inserted. Next, when the desired focus has been achieved, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 1, the screw can be inserted and completely tightened. This alternative may be advantageous in some situations because one step can be eliminated from the focus setting procedure. Specifically, the intermediate steps shown in FIG. 10 can be eliminated. With this alternative procedure,
The support members 310, 312, 340, 342 (eg, FIG. 3) can be omitted. The reason for this is that the purpose of such a support member is, as mentioned above, to be such that during the intermediate step shown in FIG.
This is because 0 and 270 allow slight warping. If the support members 310, 312, 340, 342 are omitted, the anti-rotation tabs 256, 276 of the lens holding clip member are tilted downward with respect to the anti-rotation tab 256, as previously described and shown in FIG. There is no need to make it.

While the foregoing alternative may be advantageous in some circumstances, in some cases it ensures that the lens holding clip member is stable and in the desired location while setting the focus. For this reason, it may be better to keep the intermediate tightening steps intact.

As shown in FIG. 12, a shroud (enclosure) member 70 can be attached to the inner side surface 80 of the side wall 46. Shroud member 70 may be provided to prevent stray light from reaching light sensor package 152. The shroud member 70 can also exert a downward force on the optical sensor package 152 such that the optical sensor package remains in intimate contact with the reference surface of the optical sensor mounting area 150. Shroud member 7
0 is manufactured from a plastic material such as nylon 610, for example. The side wall 46 is made of, for example, a plastic material such as polycarbonate. Side wall 46 and shroud member 70
Are both formed, for example, in a conventional injection molding process.

By forming both the optical sensor mounting area 150 and the lens mounting area 200 integrally with the side wall 46, the optical sensor mounting area 150 can be made to correspond exactly with the lens mounting area 200 as a reference.
Also, it can be seen that the optical sensor mounting area 150 and the lens mounting area can be accurately matched with the side wall 46 as a reference. Thus, the photosensor package 152 mounted as described above corresponds exactly with respect to the lens assembly 210. Further, the optical sensor package 152 and the lens assembly 210
Are accurately matched with respect to the side wall 46.

It should be noted that the foregoing has been described in connection with a bar code reader within a media processing apparatus, for purposes of example only. Alternatively, the apparatus and method described herein may be used to provide a fixed bar code on an assembly line.
It can be used for any purpose barcode reader, such as a reader or a portable barcode scanner. Also,
The apparatus and method can be used with imaging systems other than barcode readers. Examples include optical scanning devices, photocopiers and telefax devices.

The various numerical dimensions and specifications used throughout this description are provided for purposes of illustration only,
It is to be noticed that the invention as recited in the appended claims should not be construed as limiting in any way.

While the present invention has been described in terms of exemplary and presently preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated that the concepts of the invention may be embodied and utilized in various ways in other contexts, and the following claims It should be understood that such variations should be construed to include such variations except to the extent limited by the prior art. The present invention has the following embodiments.

(Embodiment 1) An image pickup apparatus (60) comprising at least one first reference plane (324, 35)
4) and at least one second reference plane (326, 35).
6) an imaging device housing (100) having:
The at least one first reference plane (324, 354)
Is said at least one second reference plane (326, 35).
6), wherein the at least one first reference plane 10 (324, 354) is discontinuous with the at least one second reference plane (326, 356); A first reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one second reference plane (326, 35);
6) At least one lens assembly (210) in contact with both.

(Embodiment 2) Recesses (328, 358) formed between the at least one first reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one second reference plane (326, 356) 2. The imaging device according to embodiment 1, further comprising:

(Embodiment 3) The imaging device housing (100) is provided with at least one third reference plane (32).
4, 354) and at least one fourth reference plane (32
6, 356), wherein the at least one third reference plane (324, 354) is coplanar with the at least one fourth reference plane (326, 356); Three third reference planes (324, 35
4) the at least one fourth reference plane (326,
356) and the at least one lens assembly (210) is
The imaging device according to embodiment 1, wherein the imaging device is in contact with both the reference planes (324, 354) and the at least one fourth reference plane (326, 356).

(Embodiment 4) Recesses (328, 358) formed between the at least one third reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one fourth reference plane (326, 356). The imaging device according to the third embodiment, further comprising:

(Embodiment 5) A method for assembling an imaging device (60), comprising: at least one first reference plane (324, 354) and at least one second reference plane (326, 356). Imaging device housing (1
00) and at least one lens (2
Providing the at least one first reference plane (324, 354) coplanar with the at least one second reference plane (326, 356); 1 reference plane (324, 354)
Is said at least one second reference plane (326, 35).
6), the lens (2) using the at least one first reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one second reference plane (326, 356).
10) A method of assembling an imaging device, comprising the step of: aligning 10) with the imaging device housing (100).

(Embodiment 6) A concave portion (328, 358) formed between the at least one first reference surface (324, 354) and the at least one second reference surface (326, 356). 6. The method of embodiment 5, further comprising the step of:

(Embodiment 7) At least one third reference plane (32) is provided on the imaging device housing (100).
4, 354) and at least one fourth reference plane (32
6, 356) and the at least one third reference plane (324, 354)
Coplanar with the four fourth reference planes (326, 356) and the at least one third reference plane (324, 35).
4) the at least one fourth reference plane (326,
356) and image the lens (210) using the at least one third reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one fourth reference plane (326, 356). 7. The method of embodiment 5, further comprising the step of aligning with the device housing (100).

(Eighth Embodiment) A recess (32) is provided between the at least one third reference plane (324, 354) and the at least one fourth reference plane (326, 356).
8. The method of embodiment 7, further comprising providing (8, 358).

(Embodiment 9) An imaging apparatus, comprising: a member (46); and at least one first reference surface (158, 160, 162, 16) formed on the member (46).
4) and at least one second reference surface (324, 326, 354, 356) formed on said member (46).
And at least one mounting mechanism (56) formed on the member (46) and adapted to mount at least one light source; at least one optical sensor package (152); and at least one optical component ( 21
0), wherein the at least one light sensor package (152) is in contact with the at least one first reference surface (158, 160, 162, 164);
The at least one optical component (210) comprises the at least one second reference surface (324, 326, 354,
356) and the first reference plane (158, 158).
160, 162, 164), the second reference plane (32
4, 326, 354, 356) and the mounting mechanism (56) are all formed integrally with the member (46).

(Embodiment 10) Imaging system (6)
0) and at least one reference plane (324, 32
6, 354, 356) and the at least one reference plane (3).
24, 326, 354, 356) and at least one lens assembly (210) in contact with said lens assembly (210).
Two members (240) and the at least one member (2
40) at least one connector (260, 280) for attaching said imaging system housing (100)
Wherein the imaging system (60) includes at least a first operating state and a second operating state, wherein in the first operating state, the at least one lens assembly (210) includes the housing The at least one connector (260, 280) is applying a first level of force to the at least one member (240);
In the operation state of (1), the at least one connector (260, 280) is connected to the at least one member (2).
40) applying a second level of force, said second level of force being greater than said first level of force, and said at least one member being plastic compared to said first operating condition. Deformed such that the at least one member (240) is in forced contact with the at least one lens assembly (210) and the at least one lens assembly (210) is in the housing (100).
An imaging system that cannot move in parallel with respect to.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a media library device including a media processing device and a media magazine.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wall portion of the medium processing apparatus of FIG. 1 showing an optical sensor attachment area and a lens attachment area.

FIG. 3 is a detailed cutaway perspective view of the lens mounting area of FIG. 2 with the lens assembly and lens holding clip removed for clarity;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a lens mounting area shown in detail in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a detailed cutaway perspective view of a lens attachment area in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the structure of the section taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4, with a lens assembly added for illustration.

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of a lens holding clip member usable in connection with the lens mounting area of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the lens holding clip member of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional cutaway view showing a state of a structure of a cut surface along a line 9-9 in FIG. 5 before a holding screw is inserted.

FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9 and is a partial cross-sectional cutaway view showing a state after a holding screw has been inserted and tightened at a first height.

11 is a view similar to FIGS. 9 and 10 and is a partial cross-sectional cutaway view showing a state after the holding screw has been inserted and tightened to the second height. FIG.

FIG. 12 shows an optical sensor mounted on the wall of FIG.
It is a perspective view showing a package and a shroud.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a focus setting device.

[Description of Reference Numerals] 46 members 56 mounting mechanism 60 imaging apparatus 100 imaging apparatus housing 152 optical sensor package 158, 160, 162, 164 reference plane 210 lens assembly 324, 326, 354, 356 first reference plane 328, 358 Recess 240 member

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Matthias A. Leicester United States Colorado 80526 Fort Collins Davidson Drive #Sea 1013 (72) Inventor Kelly Jay Reesner United States of America Colorado 80526 Fort Collins Yorkshire Street 2442 F-term (reference) 5C051 AA01 BA02 DB22 DB35 DC04 DC07 DD01 DE22

Claims (1)

[Claims] An imaging device (60) having at least one first reference surface (324, 354) and at least one second reference surface (326, 356). The at least one first reference plane (324, 354)
Is said at least one second reference plane (326, 35).
6) coplanar with said at least one first reference plane (324, 354)
Is said at least one second reference plane (326, 35).
6) discontinuous with said at least one first reference plane (324, 354)
And the at least one second reference plane (326, 3
56) at least one lens assembly (210) in contact with both.